News

New Service For Heart Failure Patients

Monday December 17 2012

A NEW support service has been set up for patients with advanced heart failure.

Barnsley Hospice has set up a weekly group called ‘Upbeat’ which will provide information, specialist advice and support.

Occupational therapist Mel Hart said: “The hospice cares for people with a range of life-limiting conditions, not just cancer, and we have seen an increase in referrals of patients in the later stages of heart failure.

“We decided there was a need for a dedicated service to help patients with the condition deal with its debilitating effects and live life to the full.

“They will be able to come together in a friendly environment to hear advice, share their concerns with our experienced staff, or to simply have a cuppa and chat to others in the same position.”

Upbeat’s team is made up of doctors, nurses, therapists and other staff and volunteers and patients will also be able to access other services including counselling and physiotherapy.

Patients will also have a chance to enjoy activities such as complementary therapies and arts and crafts as well as meeting specialist community nurses from the British Heart Foundation.